Rochdale v Posh: Match Preview

7 August 2015

Posh open their Sky Bet League One account at Spotland against Rochdale.

Peterborough United begin their Sky Bet League One account at Spotland against Keith Hill's Rochdale on Saturday afternoon (3pm) - the second successive campaign that Posh have begun their season in Lancashire.

A goal from Kyle Vassell earned Posh a 1-0 win against Dale last season, but there have been quite a few changes at both teams since that meeting.

Manager Dave Robertson is embarking on his full season in charge and after a promising pre-season, which saw just two defeats and victories over a Tottenham Hotspur XI and a high-scoring draw against a first choice West Ham United side.

The Posh boss admits 'the real football begins now' and is looking forward to the challenge ahead. 'Pre-season was good for what we needed it to be, the fitness element and the patterns of play, but the real football begins now and we are all very excited about the opening day.

'Rochdale haven't changed to much in terms of their style and they have some quality players in their squad so it will be a test, but it is a test that we are looking forward to.

'It is important to get off to a good start to the season, but we will be aiming to hit our targets consistently throughout the season because you win the league over the course of nine months,' Robertson said.

Defender Jack Baldwin remains the only Posh player on the sidelines with Gabi Zakuani and Michael Smith recovering from knocks they sustained in the draw against local rivals Cambridge United.

Rochdale were delivered a pre-season boost with Ian Henderson committing himself to the club. The striker has been linked with a move away from Spotland, but has confirmed his intention to stay with Dale.

Full back Joe Rafferty will be forced to sit out this weekend's game through suspension. Rafferty was sent off in the final game of the 2014-15 season after picking up two yellow cards in the game at Oakwell. As such, he receives a one match suspension meaning that he will miss the opener.

Andy Haines will be the referee for the League One fixture.

There are no tickets available to purchase in advance for Posh fans - it is all pay on the day. The admission prices are;

Wheelchair Users are charged the concession price with the carer free of charge. Ambulant Disabled are charged the appropriate rate for their ticket however, should they need a full time carer to accompany them, the carer is admitted free of charge. Proof of carer status or higher band of disability is required.

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